This is a trail head to trail head type of trail and is not a loop, but there are places along the trail where some other trails intersect and switchbacks can be ridden down to Navajo Lake, which is north of the trail. The altitude at the top is approximately 9,500', so riders need to be physically fit and acclimated to the altitude. Take plenty of water or you may find yourself in a dehydrated state due to riding at altitude. Just about all types of riding can be found from smooth dirt, rocky sections, roots, and severely steep switchbacks which may require hiking for some riders.

Take UT 143 out of Brian Head for 4 miles, then onto UT 148 for another 7 miles. On UT 148, you will pass Cedar Breaks National Monument so plan on stopping for some great a great photo opportunity. UT 148 runs into UT 14, take a right on UT 14 for quite many miles, then right at Cedar Canyon for approximately 6.5 miles to Woods Ranch which is where the trail head begins, or ends, depending on where you started. You will need to leave a vehicle at the trail head and shuttle a vehicle to the other end of the trail where you will park the other vehicle at Strawberry Point parking area. I don't exactly remember how to get to Strawberry Point Parking area as some one else handled the shuttleing activities. Would be best to get a detailed map from one of the bike rental shops in Brian Head.

Summary:This is a fun trail. It has some great views, and the elevation can make it quite the aerobic effort.

I noticed somebody said something like "this area blows away Moab". I don't think so. However, this along with a couple of other trails near here (Brianhead) make it worthwhile to do if you live nearby or are visiting Zion NP.

This year I plan on riding this again in one direction and trail-running it back. That should make for a long day.

Would you like to Comment?Join MTBR for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.

Summary:I live 750 miles from this trail but I usually ride it once a year, mostly in June. Turns out this is a little early most years because the snow lingers in the shady spots and last year there were an astounding number of deadfalls (mostly aspens) across the route. July or later is probably ideal, as long as the thunderstorms behave themselves.
Riding solo, I find lollipop routes to be most useful, starting from either the Lars fork road or the group campground trailhead up on the ridge at the north end (and much higher than the true north trailhead). Either of these rides includes plenty of overall climbing, tons of roaring downhill, well over 30 miles and great riding with plenty of shade to offset the sweaty work. Navajo lake is the loop in the middle of the ride and features easier riding than the Rim trail plus the chance to recharge at the resort (beer, ice cream, etc). I have holed up in a freak snowstorm there and been very thankful for hospitality and a hot cup of tea, and have also relished a cold one on a toasty warm day, so go prepared!
The riding surface has lots of lumpy little hunks of limestone to make the route slightly rough and unsettled feeling, but nothing to worry about. There's also plenty of smooth dirt and needles too. Water is rare, except at the campgrounds by the lake and a spring only several miles from the group campground. Only in one or two places is the ride too steep or too lumpy to ride, so walking is minimal. One place that comes to mind is the hill north of the Cascade Falls trailhead: it has several spots that will catch you off guard. The Spruces trail is a sweet little downhill into the lake and should not be missed. Once you hit the road, turn east and ride a half mile to the trail dropping sharply north off the road. That's the Navajo Lake trail about to introduce you to the joys of riding on lava, and yes, it can all be ridden.
Ride gently and make this beautiful trail a gem for generations!

Would you like to Comment?Join MTBR for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.

Summary:One of the best trails and camping areas in Utah. Single track through giant stands of Aspen, Fir, Blue Spruce. Miles and miles of very good single track. Views of the rim that are breath taking. Near Navajo Lake, another great little trail. Camp at Teha on the west end of the lake. Altitude is up there no question the lake is at 8200 feet, and the trail up to 9500 I think. Still very rideable by flat landers for some reason. There are tough sections but overall a person that just rides weekends can do it.

Other recommended trails in the same area:Brian Head has a tremedous amount of trails. Lodging is reasonable. Try it you will like it. The area burries Moab.

Would you like to Comment?Join MTBR for a free account, or Login if you are already a member.